With Heady Topper, John Kimmich created one of the most sought-after beers in the world, and effectively created the profile of the modern IPA. In Part 1 of this tour-de-force of a conversation, we talk to John about his path to opening The Alchemist with his wife, Jen, in 2003; the business — and current landscape — of craft beer; his advice on opening a brewery; and what distinguishes great beer from mediocre beer.

TOPICS & TIMES:

• Pittsburgh Steelers (2:42)
• John’s Beer Background (4:50)
• The Effects of Prohibition (18:52)
• Mediocre Beer (22:42)
• Current Landscape of Craft Beer (25:42)
• Being Fortunate vs Being Lucky (34:28)
• Opening The Alchemist (39:23)
• Why the name, ‘The Alchemist’ (44:59)
• Skiing / Snowboarding (51:45)
• Why Vermont? (52:55)
• Heady Topper & It’s Origins (55:39)
• Advice on Opening a Brewery? (1:03:13)
• Great Beer vs. Mediocre Beer (1:05:25)
• Bitterness vs. Astringency (1:11:44)
• Today’s Hazy IPAs (1:18:21)

RELATED LINKS

• Part 2: Our Conversation with The Alchemist's John Kimmich
• The Alchemist Brewery
• BLISTER’s Open Mic Series

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:

• Blister Podcast
• Bikes & Big Ideas
• Off the Couch
• GEAR:30

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